U.S. patent application number 11/468669 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-01 for receipt card systems.
Invention is credited to Ryan W. Dohse.
Application Number | 20070050258 11/468669 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37805507 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070050258 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dohse; Ryan W. |
March 1, 2007 |
Receipt Card Systems
Abstract
The receipt card system provides a system and method for
accumulating and storing transaction line-item detail on behalf of
consumers. The system permits consumers to view stored transaction
line-item detail in a variety of ways using a web browser
interface. It also includes a means for consumers to download
transaction line-item detail into a personal financial management
system. Transaction line-item detail is captured at each
participating merchant's location at the time of transaction
associated with a consumer and essentially automatically
transferred to a centralized database. The system and method are
essentially voluntary for both merchants and consumers.
Inventors: |
Dohse; Ryan W.; (Gilbert,
AZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STONEMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD
3113 NORTH 3RD STREET
PHOENIX
AZ
85012
US
|
Family ID: |
37805507 |
Appl. No.: |
11/468669 |
Filed: |
August 30, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60713670 |
Sep 1, 2005 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/14.35 ;
705/14.53; 705/14.57; 705/14.66 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20130101;
G06Q 30/0212 20130101; G06Q 30/0269 20130101; G06Q 30/0235
20130101; G06Q 30/0259 20130101; G06Q 30/0255 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/014 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 30/00 20060101
G06Q030/00 |
Claims
1) A system, relating to centralized consumer assistance,
comprising the steps of: a) receiving line-item data relating to at
least one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer
of at least one plurality of consumers and at least one plurality
of sellers; b) electronically accumulating, in at least one
transaction database, such line-item data relating to such at least
one plurality of transactions on behalf of such at least one
consumer; and c) permitting such at least one consumer to view such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions.
2) The system according to claim 1 wherein the step of permitting
such at least one consumer to view such line-item data comprises
the step of using at least one Internet-based-web-site computer
system.
3) The system according to claim 2 wherein the step, of receiving
line-item data relating to at least one plurality of transactions
between at least one consumer of at least one plurality of
consumers and at least one plurality of sellers, comprises the step
of electronically receiving such line-item data from such at least
one seller.
4) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the steps of:
a) offering electronic accumulation of such line-item data to such
at least one consumer; b) assigning at least one unique consumer
identifier to such at least one consumer; c) providing at least one
consumer identification card to such at least one consumer; d)
wherein such at least one consumer identification card comprises
such at least one unique consumer identifier; e) permitting use of
such at least one unique consumer identifier to relate such line
item data to such at least one consumer; and f) permitting use of
such at least one consumer identification card to relate such line
item data to such at least one consumer.
5) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the step of
receiving at least one payment from such at least one consumer
relating to such accumulating.
6) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the step of
permitting electronic transfer of such accumulated line-item data
to at least one computer program system controlled by such at least
one consumer.
7) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of:
a) permitting combining such at least one unique consumer
identifier with at least one credit card provided to such at least
one consumer by at least one credit card issuer; b) permitting use
of such at least one combined credit card for relating such line
item data to such at least one consumer; and c) electronically
receiving such related line-item data from such at least one credit
card issuer.
8) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of:
a) permitting combining of such at least one unique consumer
identifier with at least one loyalty card provided to such at least
one consumer by at least one loyalty card issuer; b) permitting use
of such at least one combined loyalty card for relating such line
item data to such at least one consumer; and c) electronically
receiving such related line-item data from such at least one
loyalty card issuer.
9) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of:
a) electronically receiving at least one coupon-based offer; b)
relating such at least one coupon-based offer to such line-item
date; c) electronically notifying such at least one consumer of
such at least one coupon-based offer related to such line-item
data; and d) permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of
such at least one coupon-based offer.
10) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps
of: a) electronically receiving at least one rebate-based offer; b)
relating such at least one rebate-based offer to such line-item
date; c) offering at least one rebate-based offer to such at least
one consumer; d) electronically notifying such at least one
consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer relating to such
line-item data; e) permitting completion, by such at least one
consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form relating to such
at least one rebate-based offer; f) permitting printing, by such at
least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form; g)
permitting electronic submission, by such at least one consumer, of
completed such at least one rebate-based offer form to at least one
rebate-based offer provider; and h) electronically providing to
such at least one consumer at least one first expiration reminder
notice related to such at least one rebate-based offer.
11) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps
of: a) electronically receiving at least one warranty-based offer
related to such line-item data; b) electronically notifying such at
least one consumer of such at least one warranty-based offer; and
c) electronically providing to such at least one consumer at least
one second expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
warranty-based offer.
12) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the steps
of: a) offering assistance with such electronic line-item data
accumulation to such at least one seller; b) assigning at least one
unique seller identifier to such at least one seller; c) receiving
at least one payment on behalf of such at least one seller; and d)
providing at least one summarized line-item data report to such at
least one seller.
13) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the steps
of: a) offering to present advertising to such at least one
consumer on behalf of at least one advertiser; b) assigning at
least one unique advertiser identifier on behalf of such at least
one advertiser; c) receiving at least one payment on behalf of such
at least one advertiser; and d) providing at least one summarized
line-item data report on behalf of such at least one
advertiser.
14) The system according to claim 3 wherein such line-item data is
substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one
transaction.
15) The system according to claim 14 comprising the step of
electronically transmitting such replicated at least one
transaction using electronic messaging to at least one electronic
device, capable of receiving such electronic messages, controlled
by such at least one consumer.
16) The system according to claim 3 further comprises the step of
providing at least one line-item data report to such at least one
consumer.
17) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the step of
permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of such
at least one seller offering such at least one product least
expensively.
18) A computer program system for an Internet computer web site
system, relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising the
steps of: a) electronically receiving line-item data relating to at
least one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer
of at least one plurality of consumers and at least one seller of
at least one plurality of sellers; b) storing, in at least one
transaction database, such line-item data relating to such at least
one plurality of transactions; and c) permitting viewing by such at
least one consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least
one plurality of transactions.
19) The computer program system according to claim 18 further
comprising the steps of: a) permitting input by such at least one
consumer of at least one consumer profile; b) assigning at least
one unique consumer identifier to such at least one consumer; c)
storing such at least one consumer profile in at least one consumer
database; d) encoding at least one consumer identification card
with such at least one unique consumer identifier; and e)
associating such line-item data with such at least one unique
consumer identifier.
20) The computer program system according to claim 19 further
comprising the steps of: a) permitting input by such at least one
consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least one
transaction; and b) storing, in such at least one transaction
database, such inputted line-item data.
21) The computer program system according to claim 19 further
comprising the step of permitting electronic transfer of such
stored line-item data to at least one computer program system
controlled by such at least one consumer.
22) The computer program system according to claim 18 further
comprising the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one
seller profile on behalf of such at least one seller; b) wherein
such at least one seller profile comprises at least one seller
identifier; and c) storing such at least one seller profile in at
least one seller database.
23) The computer program system according to claim 22 further
comprising the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one
manufacturer profile on behalf of at least one manufacturer; b)
wherein such at least one seller profile comprises at least one
manufacturer identifier; and c) storing such at least one
manufacturer profile in at least one manufacturer database.
24) The computer program system according to claim 23 further
comprising a) electronically receiving at least one warranty-based
offer related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer; b) electronically notifying such at least one consumer of
expiration of at least one warranty-based offer; and c)
electronically providing to such at least one consumer at least one
expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
warranty-based offer.
25) The computer program system according to claim 23 further
comprising the steps of: a) electronically providing such
summarized line-item data on behalf of such at least one seller;
and b) electronically providing such summarized line-item data on
behalf of such at least one manufacturer.
26) The computer program system according to claim 23 further
comprising the step of permitting identification, by such at least
one consumer, of such at least one seller offering such at least
one product least expensively.
27) The computer program system according to claim 18 further
comprising the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one
advertisement; b) storing such at least one advertisement in at
least one advertisement database; and c) presenting such stored
such at least one advertisement to such at least one consumer.
28) The computer program system according to claim 27 further
comprising the step of relating such at least one advertisement to
such line-item data related to such at least one consumer.
29) The computer program system according to claim 18 further
comprising the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one
coupon-based offer; b) providing at least one coupon-based offer to
such at least one consumer; c) electronically notifying such at
least one consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer; d)
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one coupon-based offer form relating to such at least one
coupon-based offer; and e) relating such at least one coupon-based
offer to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer.
30) The computer program system according to claim 18 further
comprising the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one
rebate-based offer; b) providing at least one rebate-based offer to
such at least one consumer; c) electronically notifying such at
least one consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer related
to such line-item data related to such at least one consumer; and
d) permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one
rebate-based offer.
31) The computer program system according to claim 18 wherein such
line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such at
least one transaction.
32) The system according to claim 31 further comprising the step of
transmitting such replicated transaction using electronic messaging
to at least one electronic device, capable of receiving such
electronic messages, controlled by such at least one consumer.
33) The computer program system according to claim 18 further
comprising the step of electronically providing line-item data
reports to such at least one consumer.
34) A system for an Internet computer web site system, relating to
centralized consumer assistance, comprising: a) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to receive line-item
data relating to at least one plurality of transactions between at
least one consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at
least one seller of at least one plurality of sellers; b) at least
one computer database structured and arranged to store, in at least
one transaction database, such line-item data relating to such at
least one plurality of transactions; c) wherein such line-item data
is substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one
transaction; d) at least one computer interface structured and
arranged to permit viewing by such at least one consumer of such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; e) at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to receive at least one advertisement; f) at least one
computer database structured and arranged to store such at least
one advertisement in at least one advertisement database; g) at
least one computer interface structured and arranged to present
such stored such at least one advertisement to such at least one
consumer; h) at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to relate such at least one advertisement to such
line-item data related to such at least one consumer; i) at least
one computer processor structured and arranged to receive at least
one coupon-based offer; j) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to provide at least one coupon-based offer
to such at least one consumer; k) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to notify such at least one consumer of
such at least one coupon-based offer; l) at least one computer
interface structured and arranged to permit printing, by such at
least one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form
relating to such at least one coupon-based offer; m) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to transmit such at
least one transaction using electronic messaging to at least one
electronic device, capable of receiving such electronic messages,
controlled by such at least one consumer; n) at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to provide at least one line-item
data report to such at least one consumer; o) at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to identify, by such at least one
consumer, such at least one seller offering such at least one
product least expensively; p) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to receive at least one rebate-based offer;
q) at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
relate such at least one rebate-based offer to such line-item date;
r) at least one computer processor structured and arranged to offer
at least one rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; s)
at least one computer processor structured and arranged to notify
such at least one consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer
relating to such line-item data; t) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to permit completion, by such at least one
consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form relating to such
at least one rebate-based offer; u) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to permit printing, by such at least one
consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form; v) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to permit electronic
submission, by such at least one consumer, of completed such at
least one rebate-based offer form to at least one rebate-based
offer provider; w) at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to provide to such at least one consumer at least one
first expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
rebate-based offer; x) at least one computer processor structured
and arranged to receive at least one warranty-based offer related
to such line-item data related to such at least one consumer; y) at
least one computer processor structured and arranged to notify such
at least one consumer of at least one warranty-based offer; and z)
at least one computer processor structured and arranged to provide
to such at least one consumer at least one second expiration
reminder notice related to such at least one warranty-based offer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is related to and claims priority
from prior provisional application Ser. No. 60/713,670, filed Sep.
1, 2005, entitled "RECEIPT CARD SYSTEMS", the contents of which are
incorporated herein by this reference and are not admitted to be
prior art with respect to the present invention by the mention in
this cross-reference section.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This invention relates to providing a system for improved
accumulation and tracking of transaction data. More particularly
this invention relates to providing an Internet website-based
system for automated accumulation and tracking of line-item
purchase data on behalf of consumers.
[0003] Today, many consumers routinely use Internet-based access to
review and manage their bank and credit card accounts. Typically,
consumers review transactional activity, transfer funds, pay bills
and download copies of the transactions into a personal financial
manager such as Intuit Quicken or Microsoft Money.
[0004] While access to transaction information for bank and credit
card accounts is useful for overall management of the account, the
purchase detail contained on the receipts would be very helpful in
better managing a consumer's budgeting for expenses. For example, a
single transaction may include many line items of details which are
very disparate, some items may be groceries, other items may be for
home maintenance, and other items may be for automobile maintenance
or repair. Today, if a consumer wishes to track those items
separately, the consumer must have the actual receipt in hand and
then manually calculate the value of the various groups of items
and finally enter the detail into a personal financial manager.
This effort largely eliminates much of the benefit of downloading
transactions.
[0005] Further, most merchants strongly prefer a physical receipt
if a consumer wishes to return an item. Frequently, receipts,
especially receipts for cash transactions, are lost or misplaced
which makes it more difficult for both the merchant and the
consumer to complete the return of an item. Currently, consumers
have no method for re-creating a lost or misplaced receipt.
[0006] Thus, a great need exists for a system capable of
effectively capturing and storing transaction line-item detail and
then making it available to consumers via the Internet.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
[0007] A primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide a system for accumulating and storing transaction line-item
detail on behalf of consumers.
[0008] It is a further primary object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system for permitting consumers to view
stored transaction line-item detail using a web browser.
[0009] It is a further primary object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system for permitting consumers to
download transaction line-item detail into a personal financial
management system.
[0010] A further primary object and feature of the present
invention is to provide such a system that permits capturing
transaction line-item detail at each participating merchant's
location at the time of transaction and substantially automatically
transferring the transaction line-item detail, associated with the
consumer, to a centralized database.
[0011] A further primary object and feature of the present
invention is to provide such a system that permits a participating
consumer to manually input transaction line-item detail into a
centralized database via a web browser interface.
[0012] Another primary object and feature of the present invention
is to provide such a system that permits a participating consumer
to select and reproduce a transaction receipt, acceptable as return
item receipt by a participating merchant, from the stored
transaction line-item detail.
[0013] Yet another primary object and feature of the present
invention is to provide such a system that permits a participating
consumer to create summary analysis reports from the stored
transaction line-item detail, including the least expensive
merchant for a selected product.
[0014] A further primary object and feature of the present
invention is to provide such a system that permits a participating
consumer to view and print coupons and rebate offers.
[0015] Another primary object and feature of the present invention
is to provide such a system that permits participating merchants to
receive summary purchase reporting.
[0016] A further primary object and feature of the present
invention is to provide such a system that is efficient,
inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of this
invention will become apparent with reference to the following
descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to centralized consumer
assistance, comprising the steps of: receiving line-item data
relating to at least one plurality of transactions between at least
one consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least
one plurality of sellers; electronically accumulating, in at least
one transaction database, such line-item data relating to such at
least one plurality of transactions on behalf of such at least one
consumer; and permitting such at least one consumer to view such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein the step
of permitting such at least one consumer to view such line-item
data comprises the step of using at least one Internet-based web
site computer system. Additionally, it provides such a system
wherein the step, receiving line-item data relating to at least one
plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least
one plurality of consumers and at least one plurality of sellers,
comprises the step of electronically receiving such line-item data
from such at least one seller. Also, it provides such a system
further comprising the steps of: assigning at least one unique
consumer identifier to such at least one consumer; and offering
electronic accumulation of such line-item data to such at least one
consumer. In addition, it provides such a system further comprising
the steps of: providing at least one consumer identification card
to such at least one consumer; wherein such at least one consumer
identification card comprises such at least one unique consumer
identifier; permitting use of such at least one unique consumer
identifier for relating such line item data to such at least one
consumer; and permitting use of such at least one consumer
identification card for relating such line item data to such at
least one consumer. And, it provides such a system further
comprising the step of receiving at least one payment from such at
least one consumer. Further, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: receiving line-item data relating to such
at least one transaction from such at least one consumer; and
electronically accumulating, in such at least one transaction
database, such inputted line-item data relating to such at least
one transaction. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising the step of permitting electronic transfer of such
accumulated line-item data to at least one computer program system
controlled by such at least one consumer. Moreover, it provides
such a system further comprising the steps of: permitting combining
such at least one unique consumer identifier with at least one
credit card provided to such at least one consumer by at least one
credit card issuer; and permitting use of such at least one
combined credit card for relating such line item data to such at
least one consumer. Additionally, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: permitting combining of such at least one
unique consumer identifier with at least one loyalty card provided
to such at least one consumer by at least one loyalty card issuer;
and permitting use of such at least one combined loyalty card for
relating such line item data to such at least one consumer. Also,
it provides such a system further comprising the steps of: offering
assistance with such electronic line-item data accumulation to such
at least one seller; assigning at least one unique seller
identifier to such at least one seller; receiving at least one
payment on behalf of such at least one seller; and providing
summarized line-item data reports to such at least one seller. In
addition, it provides such a system further comprising the step of
offering to present seller advertising to such at least one
consumer on behalf of such at least one seller. And, it provides
such a system wherein in such seller advertising is related to such
line-item data related to such at least one consumer. Further, it
provides such a system further comprising the steps of: offering to
present manufacturer advertising to such at least one consumer on
behalf of at least one manufacturer; assigning at least one unique
manufacturer identifier on behalf of such at least one
manufacturer; receiving at least one payment on behalf of such at
least one manufacturer; and providing summarized line-item data
reports on behalf of such at least one manufacturer. Even further,
it provides such a system wherein in such manufacturer advertising
is related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer. Moreover, it provides such a system further comprising
the step providing at least one coupon-based offer to such at least
one consumer. Additionally, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: electronically notifying such at least one
consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer relating to such
at least one transaction; and permitting printing, by such at least
one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer. Also, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one coupon-based offer
is provided on behalf of such at least one seller. In addition, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one coupon-based offer
is provided by on behalf of such least one manufacturer. And, it
provides such a system wherein in such coupon-based offer is
related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer. Further, it provides such a system further comprising the
steps of: offering at least one rebate-based offer to such at least
one consumer; electronically notifying such at least one consumer
of such at least one rebate-based offer relating to such line-item
data related to such at least one consumer; permitting completion,
by such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer
form relating to such at least one rebate-based offer; permitting
printing, by such at least one consumer, of at least one
rebate-based offer form; permitting electronic submission, by such
at least one consumer, of completed such at least one rebate-based
offer form to at least one rebate-based offer provider; and
electronically providing to such at least one consumer at least one
expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
rebate-based offer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of such
at least one seller. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of at
such least one manufacturer. Additionally, it provides such a
system wherein such line-item data is substantially sufficient to
replicate such at least one transaction. Also, it provides such a
system wherein such line-item data comprises at least: at least one
transaction identifier; at least one transaction date; at least one
seller identifier; at least one product identifier of at least one
product; and at least one selling price of such at least one
product. In addition, it provides such a system wherein such
line-item data further comprises at least three of the following:
at least one amount tendered; at least one payment method; at least
one sales tax amount; at least one discount amount; and at least
one discount identifier of such at least one discount amount
received. And, it provides such a system further comprising the
step of providing line-item data reports to such at least one
consumer. Further, it provides such a system further comprising the
steps of: permitting electronic summarization of such line-item
data; and permitting at least one graphical presentation of such
summarized such line item data. Even further, it provides such a
system wherein such summarization of line-item data is by such at
least one product identifier. Moreover, it provides such a system
wherein such summarization of line-item data is by such at least
one seller identifier. Additionally, it provides such a system
wherein summarization of line-item data is by such at least one
manufacturer identifier. Also, it provides such a system wherein
such summarization of line-item data is by at least one time
period. In addition, it provides such a system further comprising
the step of permitting identification, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one seller offering such at least one
product least expensively.
[0018] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a computer program system for an Internet
computer web site system, relating to centralized consumer
assistance, comprising the steps of: electronically receiving
line-item data relating to at least one plurality of transactions
between at least one consumer of at least one plurality of
consumers and at least one seller of at least one plurality of
sellers; storing, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; and permitting viewing by such at least one consumer
of such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions. And, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the steps of: permitting input by such at least
one consumer of at least one consumer profile; assigning at least
one unique consumer identifier to such at least one consumer;
storing such at least one consumer profile in at least one consumer
database; encoding at least one consumer identification card with
such at least one unique consumer identifier; and associating such
line-item data with such at least one unique consumer identifier.
Further, it provides such a computer program system further
comprising the steps of: permitting input by such at least one
consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least one
transaction; and storing, in such at least one transaction
database, such inputted line-item data. Even further, it provides
such a computer program system further comprising the step of
permitting electronic transfer of such stored line-item data to at
least one computer program system controlled by such at least one
consumer. Moreover, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least
one seller profile on behalf of such at least one seller; wherein
such at least one seller profile comprises at least one seller
identifier; and storing such at least one seller profile in at
least one seller database. Additionally, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the steps of:
electronically receiving at least one manufacturer profile on
behalf of at least one manufacturer; wherein such at least one
seller profile comprises at least one manufacturer identifier; and
storing such at least one manufacturer profile in at least one
manufacturer database. Also, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at
least one advertisement; storing such at least one advertisement in
at least one advertisement database; and presenting such stored
such at least one advertisement to such at least one consumer. In
addition, it provides such a computer program system further
comprising the step of relating such at least one advertisement to
such line-item data related to such at least one consumer. And, it
provides such a computer program system wherein such at least one
advertisement is provided on behalf of such at least one seller.
Further, it provides such a computer program system wherein such at
least one advertisement is provided on behalf of at such least one
manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at
least one coupon-based offer; providing at least one coupon-based
offer to such at least one consumer; electronically notifying such
at least one consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer; and
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one coupon-based offer form relating to such at least one
coupon-based offer. Moreover, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the step of relating such at least one
coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at least
one consumer. Additionally, it provides such a computer program
system wherein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided on
behalf of such at least one seller. Also, it provides such a
computer program system wherein such at least one coupon-based
offer is provided on behalf of at such least one manufacturer. In
addition, it provides such a computer program system further
comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
rebate-based offer; providing at least one rebate-based offer to
such at least one consumer; electronically notifying such at least
one consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer related to
such line-item data related to such at least one consumer; and
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one
rebate-based offer. And, it provides such a computer program system
wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf
of such at least one seller. Further, it provides such a computer
program system wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is
provided on behalf of at such least one manufacturer. Even further,
it provides such a computer program system wherein such line-item
data is substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one
transaction. Moreover, it provides such a computer program system
wherein such line-item data comprises at least: at least one
transaction identifier; at least one transaction date; such at
least one seller identifier; at least one product identifier of at
least one product; and at least one selling price of such at least
one product. Additionally, it provides such a computer program
system wherein such line-item data further comprises at least three
of the following: at least one amount tendered; at least one
payment method; at least one sales tax amount; at least one
discount amount; and at least one discount identifier of such at
least one discount amount received. Also, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the step of
electronically providing line-item data reports to such at least
one consumer. In addition, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the steps of: electronic summarization of
such line-item data; and permitting viewing at least one graphical
presentation of such summarized such line item data. And, it
provides such a computer program system wherein such summarization
of line-item data is by such at least one product identifier.
Further, it provides such a computer program system wherein such
summarization of line-item data is by such at least one seller
identifier. Even further, it provides such a computer program
system wherein such summarization of line-item data is by such at
least one manufacturer identifier. Moreover, it provides such a
computer program system wherein such summarization of line-item
data is by at least one time period. Additionally, it provides such
a computer program system further comprising the step of
electronically providing such summarized line-item data on behalf
of such at least one seller. Also, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising the step of electronically
providing such summarized line-item data on behalf of such at least
one manufacturer. In addition, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the step of permitting identification, by
such at least one consumer, of such at least one seller offering
such at least one product least expensively.
[0019] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system for an Internet computer web site
system, relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising:
computer processor means for receiving line-item data relating to
at least one plurality of transactions between at least one
consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least one
seller of at least one plurality of sellers; computer database
means for storing, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; and computer interface means for permitting viewing
by such at least one consumer of such line-item data relating to
such at least one plurality of transactions. And, it provides such
a system further comprising: computer interface means for
permitting input by such at least one consumer of at least one
consumer profile; computer processor means for assigning at least
one unique consumer identifier to such at least one consumer;
computer database means for storing such at least one consumer
profile in at least one consumer database. Further, it provides
such a system further comprising: computer interface means for
permitting input by such at least one consumer of such line-item
data relating to such at least one transaction; and computer
database means for storing, in such at least one transaction
database, such inputted line-item data. Even further, it provides
such a system further comprising computer processor means for
transfer of such stored line-item data to at least one computer
program system controlled by such at least one consumer. Even
further, it provides such a system further comprising the steps of:
computer processor means for receiving at least one seller profile
on behalf of such at least one seller; wherein such at least one
seller profile comprises at least one seller identifier; and
computer database means for storing such at least one seller
profile in at least one seller database. Even further, it provides
such a system further comprising: computer processor means for
receiving at least one manufacturer profile on behalf of at least
one manufacturer; wherein such at least one seller profile
comprises at least one manufacturer identifier; and computer
database means for storing such at least one manufacturer profile
in at least one manufacturer database. Even further, it provides
such a system further comprising: computer processor means for
receiving at least one advertisement; computer database means for
storing such at least one advertisement in at least one
advertisement database; and computer interface means for presenting
such stored such at least one advertisement to such at least one
consumer. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising computer processor means for relating such at least one
advertisement to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one advertisement is provided on behalf of such at least one
seller. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one advertisement is provided on behalf of at such least one
manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising: computer processor means for receiving at least one
coupon-based offer; computer processor means for providing at least
one coupon-based offer to such at least one consumer; computer
processor means for notifying such at least one consumer of such at
least one coupon-based offer; and computer interface means for
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one coupon-based offer form relating to such at least one
coupon-based offer. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising computer processor means for relating such at least one
coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at least
one consumer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
at least one coupon-based offer is provided on behalf of such at
least one seller. Even further, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one coupon-based offer is provided on behalf of at
such least one manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a
system further comprising: computer processor means for receiving
at least one rebate-based offer; computer processor means for
providing at least one rebate-based offer to such at least one
consumer; computer processor means for notifying such at least one
consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer related to such
line-item data related to such at least one consumer; and computer
interface means for permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one rebate-based offer form relating to
such at least one rebate-based offer. Even further, it provides
such a system 5 wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is
provided on behalf of such at least one seller. Even further, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one rebate-based offer
is provided on behalf of at such least one manufacturer. Even
further, it provides such a system wherein such line-item data is
substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one
transaction. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising computer processor means for providing line-item data
reports to such at least one consumer. Even further, it provides
such a system further comprising the steps of: computer processor
means for summarization of such line-item data; and computer
interface means for viewing at least one graphical presentation of
such summarized such line item data. Even further, it provides such
a system further comprising computer processor means for
identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at least one
seller offering such at least one product least expensively.
[0020] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, relating to centralized consumer
assistance, comprising the steps of: receiving line-item data
relating to at least one plurality of transactions between at least
one consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least
one plurality of sellers; electronically accumulating, in at least
one transaction database, such line-item data relating to such at
least one plurality of transactions on behalf of such at least one
consumer; and permitting such at least one consumer to view such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein the step
of permitting such at least one consumer to view such line-item
data comprises the step of using at least one
Internet-based-web-site computer system. Additionally, it provides
such a system wherein the step, of receiving line-item data
relating to at least one plurality of transactions between at least
one consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least
one plurality of sellers, comprises the step of electronically
receiving such line-item data from such at least one seller. Also,
it provides such a system further comprising the steps of: offering
electronic accumulation of such line-item data to such at least one
consumer; assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to such
at least one consumer; providing at least one consumer
identification card to such at least one consumer; wherein such at
least one consumer identification card comprises such at least one
unique consumer identifier; permitting use of such at least one
unique consumer identifier to relate such line item data to such at
least one consumer; and permitting use of such at least one
consumer identification card to relate such line item data to such
at least one consumer. In addition, it provides such a system
further comprising the step of receiving at least one payment from
such at least one consumer relating to such accumulating. And, it
provides such a system further comprising the step of permitting
electronic transfer of such accumulated line-item data to at least
one computer program system controlled by such at least one
consumer. Further, it provides such a system further comprising the
steps of: permitting combining such at least one unique consumer
identifier with at least one credit card provided to such at least
one consumer by at least one credit card issuer; permitting use of
such at least one combined credit card for relating such line item
data to such at least one consumer; and electronically receiving
such related line-item data from such at least one credit card
issuer. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising
the steps of: permitting combining of such at least one unique
consumer identifier with at least one loyalty card provided to such
at least one consumer by at least one loyalty card issuer;
permitting use of such at least one combined loyalty card for
relating such line item data to such at least one consumer; and
electronically receiving such related line-item data from such at
least one loyalty card issuer. Moreover, it provides such a system
further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least
one coupon-based offer; relating such at least one coupon-based
offer to such line-item date; electronically notifying such at
least one consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer related
to such line-item data; and permitting printing, by such at least
one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer.
Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising the
steps of: electronically receiving at least one rebate-based offer;
relating such at least one rebate-based offer to such line-item
date; offering at least one rebate-based offer to such at least one
consumer; electronically notifying such at least one consumer of
such at least one rebate-based offer relating to such line-item
data; permitting completion, by such at least one consumer, of at
least one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one
rebate-based offer; permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form; permitting
electronic submission, by such at least one consumer, of completed
such at least one rebate-based offer form to at least one
rebate-based offer provider; and electronically providing to such
at least one consumer at least one first expiration reminder notice
related to such at least one rebate-based offer. Also, it provides
such a system further comprising the steps of: electronically
receiving at least one warranty-based offer related to such
line-item data; electronically notifying such at least one consumer
of such at least one warranty-based offer; and electronically
providing to such at least one consumer at least one second
expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
warranty-based offer. In addition, it provides such a system
further comprising the steps of: offering assistance with such
electronic line-item data accumulation to such at least one seller;
assigning at least one unique seller identifier to such at least
one seller; receiving at least one payment on behalf of such at
least one seller; and providing at least one summarized line-item
data report to such at least one seller. And, it provides such a
system further comprising the steps of: offering to present
advertising to such at least one consumer on behalf of at least one
advertiser; assigning at least one unique advertiser identifier on
behalf of such at least one advertiser; receiving at least one
payment on behalf of such at least one advertiser; and providing at
least one summarized line-item data report on behalf of such at
least one advertiser. Further, it provides such a system wherein
such line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such
at least one transaction. Even further, it provides such a system
comprising the step of electronically transmitting such replicated
at least one transaction using electronic messaging to at least one
electronic device, capable of receiving such electronic messages,
controlled by such at least one consumer. Moreover, it provides
such a system further comprises the step of providing at least one
line-item data report to such at least one consumer. Additionally,
it provides such a system further comprising the step of permitting
identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at least one
seller offering such at least one product least expensively.
[0021] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a computer program system for an Internet
computer web site system, relating to centralized consumer
assistance, comprising the steps of: electronically receiving
line-item data relating to at least one plurality of transactions
between at least one consumer of at least one plurality of
consumers and at least one seller of at least one plurality of
sellers; storing, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; and permitting viewing by such at least one consumer
of such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions. Also, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the steps of: permitting input by such at least
one consumer of at least one consumer profile; assigning at least
one unique consumer identifier to such at least one consumer;
storing such at least one consumer profile in at least one consumer
database; encoding at least one consumer identification card with
such at least one unique consumer identifier; and associating such
line-item data with such at least one unique consumer identifier.
In addition, it provides such a computer program system further
comprising the steps of: permitting input by such at least one
consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least one
transaction; and storing, in such at least one transaction
database, such inputted line-item data. And, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the step of permitting
electronic transfer of such stored line-item data to at least one
computer program system controlled by such at least one consumer.
Further, it provides such a computer program system further
comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
seller profile on behalf of such at least one seller; wherein such
at least one seller profile comprises at least one seller
identifier; and storing such at least one seller profile in at
least one seller database. Even further, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the steps of:
electronically receiving at least one manufacturer profile on
behalf of at least one manufacturer; wherein such at least one
seller profile comprises at least one manufacturer identifier; and
storing such at least one manufacturer profile in at least one
manufacturer database. Moreover, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising electronically receiving at least
one warranty-based offer related to such line-item data related to
such at least one consumer; electronically notifying such at least
one consumer of at least one warranty-based offer; and
electronically providing to such at least one consumer at least one
second expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
warranty-based offer. Additionally, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising the steps of: electronically
providing such summarized line-item data on behalf of such at least
one seller; and electronically providing such summarized line-item
data on behalf of such at least one manufacturer. Also, it provides
such a computer program system further comprising the step of
permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of such
at least one seller offering such at least one product least
expensively. In addition, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at
least one advertisement; storing such at least one advertisement in
at least one advertisement database; and presenting such stored
such at least one advertisement to such at least one consumer. And,
it provides such a computer program system further comprising the
step of relating such at least one advertisement to such line-item
data related to such at least one consumer. Further, it provides
such a computer program system further comprising the steps of:
electronically receiving at least one coupon-based offer; providing
at least one coupon-based offer to such at least one consumer;
electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at
least one coupon-based offer; permitting printing, by such at least
one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form relating
to such at least one coupon-based offer; and relating such at least
one coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at
least one consumer. Even further, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising the steps of: electronically
receiving at least one rebate-based offer; providing at least one
rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; electronically
notifying such at least one consumer of such at least one
rebate-based offer related to such line-item data related to such
at least one consumer; permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one rebate-based offer form relating to
such at least one rebate-based offer; and electronically providing
to such at least one consumer at least one first expiration
reminder notice related to such at least one rebate-based offer.
Even further, it provides such a computer program system wherein
such line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such
at least one transaction. Even further, it provides such a system
further comprising the step of transmitting such replicated
transaction using electronic messaging to at least one electronic
device, capable of receiving such electronic messages, controlled
by such at least one consumer. Even further, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the step of
electronically providing line-item data reports to such at least
one consumer.
[0022] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system for an Internet computer web site
system, relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising: at
least one computer processor structured and arranged to receive
line-item data relating to at least one plurality of transactions
between at least one consumer of at least one plurality of
consumers and at least one seller of at least one plurality of
sellers; at least one computer database structured and arranged to
store, in at least one transaction database, such line-item data
relating to such at least one plurality of transactions; wherein
such line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such
at least one transaction; at least one computer interface
structured and arranged to permit viewing by such at least one
consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least one
plurality of transactions; at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to receive at least one advertisement; at
least one computer database structured and arranged to store such
at least one advertisement in at least one advertisement database;
at least one computer interface structured and arranged to present
such stored such at least one advertisement to such at least one
consumer; at least one computer processor structured and arranged
to relate such at least one advertisement to such line-item data
related to such at least one consumer; at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to receive at least one
coupon-based offer; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to provide at least one coupon-based offer to such at
least one consumer; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to notify such at least one consumer of such at least one
coupon-based offer; at least one computer interface structured and
arranged to permit printing, by such at least one consumer, of such
at least one coupon-based offer form relating to such at least one
coupon-based offer; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to transmit such at least one transaction using electronic
messaging to at least one electronic device, capable of receiving
such electronic messages, controlled by such at least one consumer;
at least one computer processor structured and arranged to provide
at least one line-item data report to such at least one consumer;
at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
identify, by such at least one consumer, such at least one seller
offering such at least one product least expensively; at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to receive at least one
rebate-based offer; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to relate such at least one rebate-based offer to such
line-item date; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to offer at least one rebate-based offer to such at least
one consumer; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to notify such at least one consumer of such at least one
rebate-based offer relating to such line-item data; at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to permit completion, by
such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form
relating to such at least one rebate-based offer; at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to permit printing, by
such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer
form; at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
permit electronic submission, by such at least one consumer, of
completed such at least one rebate-based offer form to at least one
rebate-based offer provider; at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to provide to such at least one consumer at
least one first expiration reminder notice related to such at least
one rebate-based offer; at least one computer processor structured
and arranged to receive at least one warranty-based offer related
to such line-item data related to such at least one consumer; at
least one computer processor structured and arranged to notify such
at least one consumer of at least one warranty-based offer; and at
least one computer processor structured and arranged to provide to
such at least one consumer at least one second expiration reminder
notice related to such at least one warranty-based offer.
DEFINITIONS, ACRONYMS AND CROSS-REFERENCES
[0023] The following terms and acronyms are explained below as
background and are used throughout the detailed description:
[0024] Client-Server. A model of interaction in a distributed
system in which a program at one site sends a request to a program
at another site and waits for a response. The requesting program is
called the "client," and the program that responds to the request
is called the "server." In the context of the World Wide Web, the
client is typically a "Web browser" that runs on a user's computer;
the program that responds to Web browser requests at a Web site is
commonly referred to as a "Web server."
[0025] Database. One or more large structured sets of persistent
data maintained upon a computer system organized and structured
according to a software system defining rules for organization as
well responding to queries to read, write or modify data as well as
provide statistical information regarding the contained data. As
used herein for purposes of discussion, a database may be either a
single unified system or a distributed system wherein certain
database elements are located upon different systems, acting in
harmony to appear as one unified database.
[0026] Domain Name System (DNS). An Internet service that
translates domain names (which are alphabetic identifiers) into IP
addresses (which are numeric identifiers for machines on a TCP/IP
network).
[0027] Email. A system for sending and receiving messages
electronically over a computer network, as between personal
computers.
[0028] Extensible Markup Language (XML). XML describes a class of
data objects known as XML documents and partially describes the
behavior of computer programs which process these documents. More
specifically, XML is a restricted form of the Standard Generalized
Markup Language (also known as SGML). XML documents are made up of
storage units defined as entities which in turn comprise either
parsed or unparsed data in the form of characters or simply a
character. XML is designed and intended to improve the
functionality of the Internet by providing more flexible and
adaptive forms of information. XML can be used to store any kind of
structured information and in such encapsulated form, pass it
between different computer systems which would otherwise be unable
to communicate.
[0029] Hypertext Markup Language (HTML). A standard coding
convention and set of codes for attaching presentation and linking
attributes to informational content within documents. During a
document authoring stage, the HTML codes (referred to as "tags")
are embedded within the informational content of the document. When
the Web document (or "HTML document") is subsequently transferred
from a Web server to a Web browser, the codes are interpreted by
the Web browser and used to parse and display the document. In
addition to specifying how the Web browser is to display the
document, HTML tags can be used to create links to other web sites
and other Web documents (commonly referred to as "hyperlinks"). For
more information on HTML, see Ian S. Graham, The HTML Source Book,
John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1995 (ISBN 0471-11894-4).
[0030] Hypertext Transport Protocol (HTTP). The standard World Wide
Web client-server protocol used for the exchange of information
(such as HTML documents and client requests for such documents)
between a Web browser and a Web server. HTTP includes a number of
different types of messages that can be sent from the client to the
server to request different types of server actions. For example, a
"GET" message, which has the format GET, causes the server to
return the document or file located at the specified Universal
Resource Locator (URL).
[0031] HTTPS. HTTP over SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) can be best
understood as a secure form of HTTP communication. Specifically,
SSL is a protocol utilized for the authentication and encryption of
HTTP traffic. In operation, the server and client exchange a set of
encryption keys that are used to create a unique encryption key
used to encrypt all data exchanged during the session.
[0032] Inline FRAME. A floating frame, with content just like an
ordinary frame, included in the HTML 4 standard. Inline Frames are
useful for maintaining a frame of information on the user's display
at all time even when the underlying content is scrolled up or
down.
[0033] Instant Messaging. Abbreviated IM, a type of communications
service that enables you to create a kind of private chat room with
another individual in order to communicate in real time over the
Internet, analogous to a telephone conversation but using
text-based, not voice-based, communication. Typically, the instant
messaging system alerts you whenever somebody on your private list
is online. You can then initiate a chat session with that
particular individual.
[0034] Internet. A collection of interconnected (public and/or
private) networks that are linked together by a set of standard
protocols to form a distributed network. While this term is
intended to refer to what is now commonly known as the Internet, it
is also intended to encompass variations that may be made in the
future, including changes and additions to existing standard
protocols.
[0035] LAN. A Local Area Network of computer systems, typically
within a building or office, permitting networking, the associated
sharing of resources and files, such as application software,
printers and client information, in an inter-office setting.
[0036] PHP. A server-side, cross-platform, HTML-embedded scripting
language used to create dynamic web pages. PHP is Open Source
software.
[0037] Short Message Service (SMS). A service available on most
digital mobile phones (and other mobile devices, e.g. a Pocket PC,
or occasionally even desktop computers) that permits the sending of
short messages (also known as text messages, or more colloquially
SMSes, texts or even txts) between mobile phones, other handheld
devices and even landline telephones. Messages are sent via a
store-and-forward mechanism to a Short Message Service Center
(SMSC), which will attempt to send the message to the recipient. If
the user is not reachable at a given moment, the SMSC will save the
message. Later when the user is reachable, the SMSC will retry the
delivery process.
[0038] Structured Query Language (SQL). SQL is a standard language
used to communicate with relational database management systems
(such as Oracle, Sybase, Microsoft SQL Server, Access, etc.) for
the purpose of performing tasks such as data insertion, deletion,
update, and general query for the return of data.
[0039] The Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP). SOAP is a
lightweight XML/HTTP-based protocol for the exchange of information
in a decentralized distributed platform-independent environment.
Fundamentally, SOAP consists of three parts. The first is an
envelope that defines a framework for describing what is contained
in the message and how it should be processed. The second is a set
of encoding rules for expressing instances of application-defined
data types. The third is a normalized convention for representing
remote procedure calls and responses.
[0040] Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). A
standard Internet protocol (or set of protocols) which specifies
how two computers exchange data over the Internet. TCP/IP handles
issues such as packetization, packet addressing, and handshaking
and error correction. For more information on TCP/IP, see Volumes
I, II and III of Comer and Stevens, Internetworking with TCP/IP,
Prentice Hall, Inc., ISBNs 0-13-468505-9 (vol. I), 0-13-125527-4
(vol. II), and 0-13-474222-2 (vol. III).
[0041] Uniform Resource Locator (URL). A unique address which fully
specifies the location of a file or other resource on the Internet.
The general format of a URL is protocol://machine
address:port/path/filename. The port specification is optional,
and, if not entered by the user, the Web browser defaults to the
standard port for whatever service is specified as the protocol.
For example, if HTTP is specified as the protocol, the Web browser
will use the HTTP default port. The machine address in this example
is the domain name for the computer or device on which the file is
located.
[0042] WAN. A Wide Area Network, such as the Internet.
[0043] World Wide Web ("Web"). Used herein to refer generally to
both (1) a distributed collection of interlinked, user-viewable
hypertext documents (commonly referred to as "Web documents", "Web
pages", "electronic pages" or "home pages") that are accessible via
the Internet, and (2) the client and server software components
that provide user access to such documents using standardized
Internet protocols. Currently, the primary standard protocol for
allowing applications to locate and acquire Web documents is the
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), and the electronic pages are
encoded using the Hypertext Markup Language (HTML). However, the
terms "World Wide Web" and "Web" are intended to encompass future
markup languages and transport protocols that may be used in place
of or in addition to the Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and the
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] FIG. 1 shows a schematic overview view illustrating the
primary concepts embodied in the receipt card system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 2 shows a simplified functional diagrammatical overview
of the primary processes of the receipt card system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 3 shows a simplified functional diagrammatical overview
of the manufacturer processes of the receipt card system according
to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 4 shows a summary schematic of the primary receipt card
system computer-based functions available to a consumer through the
website according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0048] FIG. 5 shows an overall schematic depicting the transaction
flows and relationships between the primary components and entities
of the receipt card system according to the preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 6 shows a schematic of the data flows and primary
databases utilized by the receipt database system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 7 shows a depiction of alternative consumer
identification cards used by a consumer at the time of a purchase
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 8 shows a depiction of a sample website home page for
the receipt card system according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0052] FIG. 9 shows a depiction of a sample member's first website
page for the receipt card system according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 10 shows a depiction of an example report of product
purchases for a consumer generated by the receipt card system
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic overview view illustrating
the primary concepts embodied in Receipt Card System 100 according
to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Receipt Card
System 100 preferably provides a method and system for accumulating
line-item detail for transactions between participating merchants
and participating consumers.
[0055] As shown, Consumer 101 completes different transactions with
a variety of merchants as exemplified by Purchase Transaction 121
completed with Merchant A 103, Purchase Transaction 125 completed
with Merchant B 105, Purchase Transaction 119 completed with
Merchant C 107, Purchase Transaction 127 completed with Merchant D
109, and Purchase Transaction 129 completed with Merchant E 111.
Presentation of Receipt Card 531 to each of the merchants initiates
process Transaction Data Transfer 123 which preferably transfers
substantially all line-item detail related to each transaction to
Receipts Database 113.
[0056] Receipt Card System 100 preferably permits consolidation of
line-item detail for Purchase Transaction 119, Purchase Transaction
121, Purchase Transaction 125, Purchase Transaction 127, and
Purchase Transaction 129 into Receipts Database 113 regardless of
payment method used (such as check, cash or credit card). Further,
as shown in process Database Access 135, Receipt Card System 100
preferably permits Consumer 101 to access Receipts Database 113 to
view the accumulated line-item detail in a variety of Reports 131
via the Internet through Consumer Interface 803 (see FIG. 8, FIG. 9
and FIG. 10) which is web-browser based (at least herein embodying
permitting such at least one consumer to view such line-item data
relating to such at least one plurality of transactions; and at
least herein embodying using at least one Internet-based web site
computer system). Additionally, preferably Consumer 101 may use
Digital Mobile Phone 221 (or similar wireless device, such as a
personal digital assistant) that is capable of accessing Website
215 via Internet 543 to access the stored line-item detail.
Preferably, Consumer 101 may receive SMS (or similar) electronic
text messages containing transaction line-item detail that are sent
to a wireless device, such as Digital Mobile Phone 221 (at least
herein embodying electronically transmitting such replicated at
least one transaction using electronic messaging to at least one
electronic device, capable of receiving such electronic messages,
controlled by such at least one consumer). Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, consumer
preferences, user location, etc., other personal digital assistants
capable of wireless connection to the Internet, such as
BlackBerry.RTM. offered by Research in Motion Limited, Treo.TM.
offered by Palm, Inc., etc., may suffice. Additionally, as part of
process Database Access 135, preferably Consumer 101 may print
Receipt 133, in sufficient line-item detail to re-create a purchase
receipt that is acceptable for merchandise returns at merchants
(represented by Merchant A 103, Merchant B 105, Merchant C 107,
Merchant D 109 and Merchant E 111) participating in process
Transaction Data Transfer 123. Preferably purchase receipts may
also be created as gift receipts, which do not include item
pricing, for use by gift recipients for merchandise returns at
merchants (represented by Merchant A 103, Merchant B 105, Merchant
C 107, Merchant D 109 and Merchant E 111) participating in process
Transaction Data Transfer 123.
[0057] Preferably, Receipt Card System 100 also comprises process
Merchant Access 137 which include preparation of Summary Analyses
139, a summary of purchase activity for each merchant (represented
by Merchant A 103, Merchant B 105, Merchant C 107, Merchant D 109
and Merchant E 111) participating in process Transaction Data
Transfer 123.
[0058] These and additional functions and capabilities are further
described below.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 2, a simplified functional diagrammatical
overview of the primary processes of the Receipt Card System 100
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in
step Sign License Agreement 201 Manager 200 preferably signs a
license agreement with Merchant A 103 (at least herein embodying
offering assistance with such electronic line-item data
accumulation to such at least one seller). The license agreement
preferably obligates Merchant A 103 to transfer line-item detail
for each transaction when Consumer 101 presents Receipt Card 531 or
provides their unique receipt card identification number. In turn,
Manager 200 preferably commits to assign a unique identifier to
Merchant A 103, permit Merchant A 103 to optionally offer coupon
and rebate information, which may be related to line-item detail,
through Website 215 and to provide Merchant A 103 summary reports
related to transaction activity with Merchant A 103 (at least
herein embodying assigning at least one unique seller identifier to
such at least one seller; and at least embodying herein providing
summarized line-item data reports to such at least one seller).
Preferably, Merchant A 103 may also optionally provide advertising
to be displayed on Website 215. Further, Merchant A 103 preferably
agrees to pay required fees associated with services provided by
Manager 200 (at least herein embodying receiving at least one
payment on behalf of such at least one seller). Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, changes in the
competitive environment, advertising, coupons and rebate
information may be provided by other merchants, such as those not
licensed to transfer line-item data, etc., may suffice.
[0060] According to a first alternate preferred embodiment receipt
card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) may be combined with one or more credit
cards (issued by one or more credit card issuers) to eliminate the
need to carry a separate Receipt Card 531 for Consumer 101 (at
least herein embodying permitting combining such at least one
unique consumer identifier with at least one credit card provided
to such at least one consumer by at least one credit card issuer).
Preferably, this requires completion of an agreement between a
credit card issuer and Manager 200 to permit inclusion of receipt
card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) on the magnetic strip or as a barcode on the
back of the credit card or some similar arrangement. Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, preferences of
credit card issuers, user location, etc., other methods of relating
receipt card identification information to a consumer's credit
cards, such as specialized credit card numbering schemes,
specialized credit card types, etc., may suffice. As used herein,
the term credit card comprises credit cards, debit cards, charge
cards, and gift cards or other similar forms of payment accepted by
merchants in lieu of cash.
[0061] Preferably, when Receipt Card 531 is combined with one or
more credit cards (issued by one or more credit card issuers) step
Provide Purchase Data 213 may comprise receiving line-item detail
from one or more credit card issuers (at least herein embodying
electronically receiving such related line-item data from such at
least one credit card issuer).
[0062] According to a second alternate preferred embodiment receipt
card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) may be combined with one or more customer
loyalty cards to eliminate the need to carry a separate Receipt
Card 531 for Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying permitting
combining of such at least one unique consumer identifier with at
least one loyalty card provided to such at least one consumer by at
least one loyalty card issuer). Preferably, this requires
completion of an agreement between the customer loyalty card issuer
(which may be Merchant A 103) and Manager 200 to permit inclusion
of receipt card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) on the magnetic strip or as a barcode on the
back of the customer loyalty card or some similar arrangement. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology,
preferences of loyalty card issuers, user location, etc., other
methods of relating receipt card identification information to a
consumer's loyalty card, such as specialized loyalty card numbering
schemes, etc., may suffice.
[0063] Preferably, when Receipt Card 531 is combined with one or
more customer loyalty cards (issued by one or more customer loyalty
card issuers) step Provide Purchase Data 213 may comprise receiving
line-item detail from one or more customer loyalty card issuers (at
least herein embodying electronically receiving such related
line-item data from such at least one loyalty card issuer).
[0064] Upon completion of a licensing agreement between Manager 200
and Merchant A 103, as shown in step Implement Receipt Card POS
203, Manager 200 preferably arranges for and assists Merchant A 103
in the installation of Receipt Card POS 533 (which preferably
includes point-of-sale software and/or hardware for accepting
Receipt Card 531 and necessary software and/or hardware to
interface Receipt Card POS 533 with Merchant POS 525) at the retail
locations of Merchant A 103. Preferably, Receipt Card POS 533 works
in combination with the point-of-sale hardware and software used by
Merchant A 103.
[0065] As depicted in step Pay Fees 205, preferably Merchant A 103
pays required fees associated with participation in Receipt Card
System 100. Optionally, Merchant A 103 may pay additional fees
associated with advertising, coupons and rebate offers presented on
Website 215.
[0066] Preferably, in step Sign Up for Receipt Card 208 Manager 200
offers services of Receipt Card System 100 to Consumer 101 through
various advertising means (at least herein embodying offering
electronic accumulation of such line-item data to such at least one
consumer). Preferably, Consumer 101 may sign up for participation
in Receipt Card System 100 by either completing an online profile
through Website 215 or by using forms available at checkout at
Merchant A 103 or by completing and submitting forms provided in
conjunction with a product. If Consumer 101 signs up at Merchant A
103 preferably Consumer 101 will complete necessary profile
information by accessing Website 215 using a temporary login and
password. Preferably, in either case, Consumer 101 receives a
unique identification number and at least one Receipt Card 531 (see
FIG. 7 for examples of the various card forms which may be used)
(at least herein embodying assigning at least one unique consumer
identifier to such at least one consumer; at least herein embodying
providing at least one consumer identification card to such at
least one consumer; and at least herein embodying such at least one
consumer identification card comprises such at least one unique
consumer identifier). Preferably, Consumer 101 pays a fee to sign
up and participate in Receipt Card System 100 when signing up
through Website 215 or at checkout at Merchant A 103 (at least
herein embodying receiving at least one payment from such at least
one consumer). If Consumer 101 signs up at checkout, Merchant A 103
optionally collects the fee and sends it, less a set percentage, to
Manager 200. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that,
under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as
competition, changing market conditions, etc., other fee
arrangements, such as, for example, offering services of the
receipt card system at no charge to consumers, etc., may
suffice.
[0067] Preferably, after signing up Consumer 101 may use the
Receipt Card 531 when making purchases at Merchant A 103, as shown
in step Make Purchases Using Receipt Card 209 (at least herein
embodying permitting use of such at least one consumer
identification card for relating such line item data to such at
least one consumer). Alternatively, if Receipt Card 531 is not
available, Consumer 101 may manually enter an alternate
identification (such as telephone number) as a means for linking
the purchase with Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying
permitting use of such at least one unique consumer identifier for
relating such line item data to such at least one consumer). Use of
Receipt Card 531 (or alternate identification), in conjunction with
Receipt Card POS 533, at Merchant A 103 at the time of purchase
preferably results in the line-item detail of the purchase
transaction being transferred electronically to Receipts Database
System 207 as depicted by step Provide Purchase Data 213 (at least
herein embodying receiving line-item data relating to at least one
plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least
one plurality of consumers and at least one plurality of sellers;
and at least herein embodying electronically receiving such
line-item data from such at least one seller). Preferably, once the
purchase transaction line-item detail has been transferred to
Receipts Database System 207 Consumer 101 may review the line-item
detail by logging into Website 215, as shown in step Access Website
133.
[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, in step Manage Receipts Database System 202 Manager 200
preferably performs all necessary system management tasks
including, for example, setting up new merchants, removing
merchants who have resigned, removing history after consumers who
are no longer members as well as other routine database management
tasks necessary to ensure smooth operation of the Receipts Database
System 207 and Website 215.
[0069] Preferably, in step Provide Rebate/Coupon Data 216 Merchant
A 103 may elect to present rebate and coupon offers to Consumer 101
when logged onto Website 215. Preferably, the rebate and coupon
offers may optionally be associated products of Merchant A 103 so
that when Consumer 101 is viewing line-item detail rebates and
coupons for the product, similar, or related products are presented
to Consumer 101. Preferably, coupons and rebates presented will be
appropriate for a geographic area associated with Consumer 101.
[0070] Preferably, in step Provide Website Advertising 217 Merchant
A 103 may elect to present advertisements to Consumer 101 when
logged onto Website 215 (at least herein embodying offering to
present seller advertising to such at least one consumer on behalf
of such at least one seller). Preferably, the advertisements may
optionally be associated products of Merchant A 103 so that
advertisements for the product, similar, or related products are
presented to Consumer 101 when Consumer 101 is viewing line-item
detail (at least herein embodying such seller advertising is
related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer). Preferably, advertisements presented will be appropriate
for a geographic area associated with Consumer 101.
[0071] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, Manager 200 provides summary purchase data to Merchant A
103 as shown in step Receive Summary Analyses 219. Preferably, the
summary purchase data will be summary in nature and will not
include any personally identifying information related to Consumer
101. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as privacy
requirements and limitations, etc., other reporting arrangements,
such as, for example, providing card usage activity reports only,
etc., may suffice.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, a simplified functional diagrammatical
overview of the Manufacturer Processes 300 of the receipt card
system according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, in step Sign Advertising Agreement 303, Manager 200
preferably signs an advertising agreement with Manufacturer 301
(representative of all manufacturers and distributors wishing to
advertise, or offer rebates or coupons to Consumer 101) (at least
herein embodying offering to present manufacturer advertising to
such at least one consumer on behalf of at least one manufacturer).
Manager 200 preferably commits to permit Manufacturer 301 to assign
Manufacturer 301 a unique identifier, to permit advertising, which
may be related to line-item data, to be displayed on Website 215
and to provide Manufacturer 301 summary reports related to
transaction activity for products offered by Manufacturer 301 (at
least herein embodying assigning at least one unique manufacturer
identifier on behalf of such at least one manufacturer; and at
least embodying herein providing summarized line-item data reports
on behalf of such at least one manufacturer). Preferably,
Manufacturer 301 may also provide offer coupon and rebate
information, which may be related to line-item data, and displayed
on Website 215. Preferably, Manufacturer 301 may also provide offer
warranty information to be related to line-item detail and
displayed on Website 215. Further, Manufacturer 301 preferably
agrees to pay required fees associated with services provided by
Manager 200 (at least herein embodying receiving at least one
payment on behalf of such at least one manufacturer).
[0073] Preferably, in step Provide Product Advertising 305
Manufacturer 301 may elect to provide advertisements for
presentation to Consumer 101 when Consumer 101 is logged onto
Website 215. Preferably, the advertisements are associated products
of Manufacturer 301 so that advertisements for the product,
similar, or related products are presented to Consumer 101 when
Consumer 101 is viewing line-item detail (at least herein embodying
manufacturer advertising is related to such line-item data related
to such at least one consumer). Preferably, product advertisements
presented will be appropriate for merchants in a geographic area
associated with Consumer 101.
[0074] Preferably, in step Provide Rebate/Coupon/Warranties 307
Manufacturer 301 may elect to provide rebate and coupon offers and
or warranty offers for presentation to Consumer 101 when logged
onto Website 215. Preferably, the rebate and coupon offers may
optionally be associated products of Manufacturer 301 so that when
Consumer 101 is viewing line-item detail rebates and coupons for
the product, or similar related products, are presented to Consumer
101. Preferably, coupons and rebates presented will be appropriate
for a geographic area associated with Consumer 101. Preferably
warranties presented will be related to line-item detail related to
Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying electronically receiving at
least one warranty-based offer related to such line-item data).
[0075] As depicted in step Pay Manufacturer Fees 309, preferably
Manufacturer 301 pays required fees associated with advertising on
Website 215 of Receipt Card System 100. Optionally, Manufacturer
301 may pay additional fees associated with coupons and rebate
offers presented on Website 215.
[0076] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, Manager 200 provides summary data to Manufacturer 301 as
shown in step Receive Summary Analyses 311. Preferably, the data
will be summary in nature and will not include any personally
identifying information related to Consumer 101. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as privacy requirements and limitations,
etc., other reporting arrangements, such as, for example, providing
product purchase activity, etc., may suffice.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 4, a summary schematic of the primary
functions available to a consumer through Website 215 according to
a preferred embodiment of the present invention, function Manual
Input 401 preferably provides a variety of input functions for
Consumer 101 including: manual input, and accumulation in Receipts
Database 113, of receipt line-item detail for a purchase
transaction completed at a merchant that is not participating in
Receipt Card System 100; manual input of receipt line-item detail
for Merchant A 103 when Receipt Card 531 or unique identifier could
not be used; modify or delete manually entered receipt line-item
detail or an entire receipt (at least herein embodying receiving
line-item data relating to such at least one transaction from such
at least one consumer; and at least herein embodying electronically
accumulating, in such at least one transaction database, such
inputted line-item data relating to such at least one transaction).
Preferably, automatically downloaded receipts can not be changed by
Consumer 101.
[0078] Preferably, Consumer 101 may use function Print Receipt 403
to print or re-print any receipt contained in the Receipts Database
System 207 in its entirety (at least herein embodying such
line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such at
least one transaction). Additionally, preferably Consumer 101 may
elect a gift receipt format (all receipt information is included
except the item price) to print or re-print any receipt. Preferably
receipts downloaded by Merchant A 103 and reprinted as a full
receipt or as a gift receipt would be acceptable as proof of
purchase when Consumer 101 wishes to return a product. Products
returned by Consumer 101 to Merchant A 103 are preferably recorded
in the same manner as the original transaction by Receipt Card POS
533 and downloaded to Receipt Card System 100 which then preferably
matches the return receipt to the original receipt and notes the
returned item on the original receipt to prevent re-use of a
receipt to return the same product.
[0079] Preferably, function Coupon/Rebate Forms 405 encompasses
means for identifying and printing coupons, rebates and warranty
information of importance to Consumer 101. Particularly,
preferably, Consumer 101 may select a hypertext link to Merchant A
103 to view all coupon and rebate offers, and any related
restrictions or quantity requirements, available from Merchant A
103 or from Manufacturer 301 whose products are sold by Merchant A
103 (at least herein embodying such at least one coupon-based offer
is provided on behalf of such at least one seller; at least
embodying herein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided
by on behalf of such least one manufacturer; at least embodying
herein such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf
of such at least one seller; and at least embodying herein such at
least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of such at least
one seller). Further, Consumer 101 may select a hypertext link for
Manufacturer 301 to view all coupon and rebate offers and any
related restrictions or quantity requirements. Additionally,
preferably, Consumer 101 may select a hypertext link to
Manufacturer 301 to view all warranties (including terms,
requirements and expiration dates) related to purchase history of
Consumer 101. Preferably Consumer 101 may also select a product to
determine if any coupon, rebate offers, or warranties are
available. Receipt Card System 100 may also suggest coupon or
rebate offers for the same or similar products based on purchase
history of Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying providing at
least one coupon-based offer to such at least one consumer; at
least embodying herein wherein in such coupon-based offer is
related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer; at least embodying herein offering at least one
rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; at least herein
embodying electronically notifying such at least one consumer of
such at least one warranty-based offer). Preferably, Consumer 101
may select a coupon or rebate offer and print the coupon, rebate
offer or warranty information for presentation to Merchant A 103 or
Manufacturer 301 (at least herein embodying permitting printing, by
such at least one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based
offer; and at least embodying herein permitting printing, by such
at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form).
Preferably, Consumer 101 may also be notified by email of available
rebates, coupons, or warranty expirations based on their purchase
history (at least herein embodying electronically notifying such at
least one consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer relating
to such at least one transaction; and at least embodying herein
electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at
least one rebate-based offer relating to such line-item data
related to such at least one consumer).
[0080] According to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, function Print Reports 406 preferably permits Consumer
101 to select a report, set the desired selection criteria, set the
desired sort sequence and print both a tabular or graphical
analysis of the selected and sorted line-item detail (at least
herein embodying permitting electronic summarization of such
line-item data; and at least embodying herein permitting at least
one graphical presentation of such summarized such line item data).
Preferably, selection criteria comprise date, date range, product,
merchant, merchant type and product type (at least herein embodying
such summarization of line-item data is by such at least one seller
identifier; at least embodying herein summarization of line-item
data is by such at least one manufacturer identifier; at least
embodying herein summarization of line-item data is by such at
least one manufacturer identifier). Preferably, sort order
comprises at least date, date range, product, merchant, merchant
type and product type (at least herein embodying comprising the
step of providing line-item data reports to such at least one
consumer).
[0081] Preferably, function Submit Rebate Online 407 permits
Consumer 101 to complete a selected rebate form and electronically
submit it, along with an electronic copy of the receipt to the
offeror, Merchant A 103 or Manufacturer 301 (at least embodying
herein permitting completion, by such at least one consumer, of at
least one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one
rebate-based offer; and at least embodying herein permitting
electronic submission, by such at least one consumer, of completed
such at least one rebate-based offer form to at least one
rebate-based offer provider). Alternatively, Consumer 101 may be
provided a hypertext link to a website of Merchant A 103 or
Manufacturer 301 which permits completion and electronic submission
of a rebate form.
[0082] Function Rebate/Warranty Reminder 408 preferably matches
line-item detail to available rebate offers and warranties provided
by Merchant A 103 and Manufacturer 301 and generates at least one
pop-up message to Consumer 101 at login, or generates at least one
email reminder to Consumer 101, regarding rebate requirements and
expirations or warranty requirements and expirations (at least
herein embodying electronically providing to such at least one
consumer at least one expiration reminder notice related to such at
least one rebate-based offer; and at least herein embodying
electronically providing to such at least one consumer at least one
second expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
warranty-based offer).
[0083] Function Query 409 preferably provides the capability for
Consumer 101 to search line-item detail across members of Receipt
Card System 100 to identify best prices paid. Preferably, no
personal information of other members associated with the line-item
detail is revealed to Consumer 101. Preferably, Consumer 101 may
use function Query 409 to find the lowest price recently paid for a
product and the merchant from which it was purchased (at least
herein embodying comprising the step of permitting identification,
by such at least one consumer, of such at least one seller offering
such at least one product least expensively). Preferably, Consumer
101 may also query for other savings tips based on analysis of the
line-item detail accumulated across many members.
[0084] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
function Transfer Data 411 permits Consumer 101 to periodically
transfer line-item detail to a personal computer, or similar
computer system where a selected a personal financial manager, such
as Intuit Quicken or Microsoft Money, or a small business
accounting system, such as QuickBooks from Intuit, Inc. is
installed (at least herein embodying permitting electronic transfer
of such accumulated line-item data to at least one computer program
system controlled by such at least one consumer). Preferably,
function Transfer Data 411 also permits Consumer 101 to receive SMS
(or similar) electronic text messages containing transaction
line-item detail sent to any digital wireless device, such as
Digital Mobile Phone 221.
[0085] Preferably, function Sign Up/Manage Profile 413 permits
Consumer 101 to initially sign up and pay membership fees.
Preferably, it also permits Consumer 101 to revise their profile
information such as name and address, reset their password, provide
updated credit card information and set their preferences regarding
accumulation of line-item detail and default reporting,
transmission of text messages (SMS messages) to Digital Mobile
Phone 221, etc.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 5, an overall schematic depicting the
transaction flows and relationships between the primary components
and entities of the receipt card system according to the preferred
embodiment of the present invention, transaction and data flow
begins when Consumer 101 makes a purchase at Merchant A 103 and
uses Receipt Card 531 as depicted by Purchase Transaction 121.
Preferably, Receipt Card POS 533 (which preferably includes
point-of-sale hardware and software for accepting Receipt Card 531
and necessary hardware and or software to interface Receipt Card
POS 533 with Merchant POS 525) permits Consumer 101 to "swipe"
Receipt Card 531 on the credit card reader, or to "swipe" a
combination credit card containing consumer's receipt card
identification number, or to key enter their receipt card
identification number. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering
issues such as technological requirements, capabilities of various
merchant point-of-sale system, etc., other arrangements for
capturing a consumer's receipt card identification number, such as,
for example, use of bar codes, etc., may suffice. Preferably,
presentation by Consumer 101 of consumer's receipt card
identification number causes Receipt Card POS 533, working in
concert with Merchant POS 525, to associate the transaction
line-item detail with Consumer 101 and to store it for later
forwarding to Receipt Database System 207. As depicted, stored
line-item detail data is electronically transferred by
communication between Merchant POS 525 and Data Collection Module
509 of Receipt Card Database System 207 in process Transaction Data
Transfer 123. Preferably, Data Collection Module 509 communicates
with each Merchant POS 525 operated by Merchant A 103. Preferably,
communication and transfer of stored line-item detail may be
accomplished in any one of a variety of well-known methods.
Preferably, Data Collection Module 509 manages transfer and
validation of line-item detail and then adds the line-item detail
to Receipts Database 113 (at least herein embodying electronically
accumulating, in at least one transaction database, such line-item
data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions on
behalf of such at least one consumer). Preferably, Consumer 101
uses Consumer PC 454 to access Website 215 via Internet 543 to use
the functionality described with reference to FIG. 4 to access the
stored line-item detail. User interface examples are presented in
FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10. Additionally, preferably Consumer 101
may use Digital Mobile Phone 221 (or similar wireless device, such
as a personal digital assistant) that is capable of accessing
Website 215 via Internet 543 to use the functionality described
with reference to FIG. 4 to access the stored line-item detail.
Optionally, Consumer 101 may elect to receive SMS (or similar) text
messages containing transaction line-item detail sent to a wireless
device, such as Digital Mobile Phone 221 from Receipt Database
System 207. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those
with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, consumer preferences, user location, etc., other
personal digital assistants capable of wireless connection to the
Internet, such as BlackBerry.RTM. offered by Research in Motion
Limited, Treo.TM. offered by Palm, Inc., etc., may suffice.
Preferably, Consumer 101 may request automatic transmission of SMS
(or similar) text messages containing transaction line-item detail
sent to a wireless device, such as Digital Mobile Phone 221 by
Receipt Database System 207 for purchases made at un-attended sales
locations of Merchant A 103.
[0087] Preferably, Manager 200 utilizes System Management Module
513 to perform required management of Receipt Database System 207.
Management of Receipt Database System 207 includes, for example,
setting up new merchants, removing merchants who have resigned,
removing history for consumers who are no longer members as well as
other routine database management tasks necessary to ensure smooth
operation of the Receipts Database System 207 and Website 215
[0088] According to a first alternate preferred embodiment receipt
card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) may be combined with a credit card to
eliminate the need for to carry a separate Receipt Card 531
Consumer 101. Preferably, presentation by Consumer 101 of a credit
card which includes receipt card identification information causes
Receipt Card POS 533, working in concert with Merchant POS 525, to
associate the transaction line-item detail with Consumer 101 and to
store it for later forwarding to Receipt Database System 207 (at
least herein embodying permitting use of such at least one combined
credit card for relating such line item data to such at least one
consumer).
[0089] According to a second alternate preferred embodiment receipt
card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) may be combined with a customer loyalty card
to eliminate the need to carry a separate Receipt Card 531 for
Consumer 101. Preferably, presentation by Consumer 101 of a
customer loyalty card which includes receipt card identification
information causes Receipt Card POS 533, working in concert with
Merchant POS 525, to associate the transaction line-item detail
with Consumer 101 and to store it for later forwarding to Receipt
Database System 207 (at least herein embodying permitting use of
such at least one combined loyalty card for relating such line item
data to such at least one consumer).
[0090] Referring to FIG. 6, a schematic of the data flows and
primary databases utilized by Receipt Database System 207 according
to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Receipts
Database 113 preferably comprises a variety of specialized
databases to store line-item detail for consumers and to manage and
control Receipt Database System 207. Preferably, Receipts 603
contains line-item detail for all transactions provided by Merchant
POS 525 operated by Merchant A 103 for Consumer 101. Preferably,
line-item detail data comprises:
[0091] transaction identifier;
[0092] transaction date;
[0093] merchant identifier;
[0094] product identifier, such as SKU or UPC;
[0095] selling price for each product;
[0096] amount tendered;
[0097] payment method;
[0098] sales tax amount;
[0099] discount amount; and
[0100] discount identifier.
[0101] Preferably, access by Consumer 101 to Receipts 603 is
controlled by Consumer Profiles 601 which contains profile and
access permissions for Consumer 101 as well as billing and payment
information.
[0102] Preferably, Provider Profiles 609 contains company profiles,
such as company name and address, type of company, company
identifier, etc. and access permissions for both Merchant A 103 and
Manufacturer 301. Provider Profiles 609 may also contain billing
and payment information as well related to Merchant A 103 and/or
Manufacturer 301.
[0103] Preferably, Merchant A 103 and/or Manufacturer 301 will
provide content for SKU/UPC Codes 611, Coupons 613, Rebates 615 and
Warranties 623. Preferably, SKU/UPC Codes 611 contains stock
keeping unit codes (SKU) and/or universal product coding codes
(UPC) and related product information such as name, size, product
type, etc. to permit de-coding line-item detail for viewing by
Consumer 101.
[0104] Preferably, Coupons 613 contains coupon information related
to specific products. Typical information included is coupon
expiration date, SKU/UPC of product, discount amount, other
requirements or limitations, and a coupon image or representation
suitable for printing by Consumer 101.
[0105] Preferably, Rebates 615 contains rebate information related
to specific products. Typical information included is rebate
expiration date, SKU/UPC of product, rebate amount, other
requirements or limitations, and a rebate form image or
representation suitable for printing by Consumer 101. Rebate
information may also include hypertext links to rebate submission
websites to permit online submission of completed rebate forms.
[0106] Preferably, Warranties 623 contains warranty information
related to specific products. Typical information included is
warranty expiration date, SKU/UPC of product, warranty limitations,
other requirements, and a warranty form image or representation
suitable for printing by Consumer 101. Warranty information may
also include hypertext links to warranty claim submission websites
to permit online submission of completed warranty claim forms.
[0107] Preferably, each of the specialized databases is used to
provide Consumer Receipts and Reports 131 to Consumer 101, Merchant
Reports 617 to Merchant A 103, Manufacturer Reports 619 to
Manufacturer 301 and Industry Reports 621 for a variety of uses
including marketing by Manager 200.
[0108] Although applicant has described applicant's preferred
embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the
broadest scope of this invention includes modifications such as
diverse shapes, sizes, and materials. Such scope is limited only by
the below claims as read in connection with the above
specification.
[0109] Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will
be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions
and the below claims.
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